She was born three months early and weighed only 695 grams. – It stays with you for life
Camilla Hornbæk discusses the lifelong impacts of being born extremely premature, as she shares her experience of being born at 26 weeks gestation.
Camilla Hornbæk, now 30 years old, was born prematurely at just 26 weeks, weighing only 695 grams. This traumatic start to life has led to various late-onset health issues that she continues to grapple with as an adult. Her story is one of resilience, but it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by those born extremely prematurely.
Each year, approximately 200 children in Norway are born before reaching 28 weeks of gestation, which raises significant concerns about their long-term development and health outcomes. Camilla’s experience invites readers to consider the physical and emotional implications of premature birth as she aims to spark discussions about the challenges faced by survivors.
Highlighting the extraordinary medical advances in neonatal care, Camilla’s narrative also prompts a reflection on what it means for individuals born under such risky conditions to navigate life as adults. The societal understanding of prematurity and the support available could significantly influence the quality of life for these individuals, a point that Camilla wants to emphasize through her advocacy.